How many guests are on a tour?

Group sizes range from 6 to 16, depending on location. We keep group sizes appropriate for what we are photographing. If transportation is needed, we often lease buses considerably larger than the group size for both comfort and to have extra room for camera bags and equipment. For example, in Kenya there are only 3 to 4 guests per safari vehicle. We make sure each guest has plenty of “personal space” on our tours. If the tour is primarily people photography, we will try to have smaller groups.

What is the average age of guests?

Average age of our guests is 40 to 75 years old. Typically we don’t have children on our tours; however, on occasion we’ve had teenagers who were highly interested in photography. Teenagers must have the patience and maturity to join our groups and converse with adults. If you have any disabilities, we’ll let you know ahead of time if we can adjust the tour to accommodate for your needs. All depends on the activity level and location.

What photography skills do I need to join a tour?

We invite anyone with an interest in photography to join us, from new photographers to those with advanced skills. Our tours are designed for you to learn one-on-one from Dan on a personal level. Everyone has different cameras, skills, and knowledge, and we feel you will improve your photography more quickly by asking questions based on your specific needs. We find often that “classroom workshops” are too advanced for some or too basic for others. We spend less time in a classroom setting and more time out shooting in the field. Dan is by your side to guide and teach you as you need help. Dan is familiar with a variety of camera systems and keeps up to date with the latest technologies.

Who is the typical guest that travels on your tours?

It varies. We have guests that are retired and guests who are still working. We have both couples and singles who travel with us. Often we’ll have singles travel with a friend on their first trip, and then after getting to know us, they feel comfortable enough to come on their own. We’ll look after you from start to finish.

Many of our guests are referrals or people we meet during our travels. We generally know about 80% of our guests before the trip, so it is like traveling with friends and often trips are like a reunion. First-time guests quickly join our travel family. Our guests are non-competitive and inviting to newcomers. Guests appreciate the mix of photography, socializing, and vacation.

It’s always an asset to travel with like-minded people. We try to not “over-schedule” tours, so each person has some time on their own to explore if the location allows. At times we offer “optional” photo shoots, so those who want to take a break or have no interest in the shoot don’t feel obligated to be involved all the time. Tanya will do her best to customize small aspects of the tour to accommodate for each guest’s needs. This is your vacation!

Why are tours called "Invitational"?

Good question! Dan and Tanya know the majority of the guests who travel with them. If you do not know them and wish to join a trip, you are always welcome. We try to find like-minded guests who can “play well with others,” be patient when needed (especially with wildlife), and who will be a good fit in our groups. If we feel we’re not meeting your expectations/guest does not have the personality to get along well with others, we’ll make the decision to no longer have them participate on future tours. Guests and friends who travel with Natural Exposures appreciate and support this screening process. We want everyone to have a good time and enjoy each other’s company. We try hard to make every trip special for each individual guest.

Are non-photographing spouses welcome?

Of course, they are always welcome! The tour description will indicate if a particular trip is good for couples and non-photographing spouses. Since we try to stay at nice places with amazing wildlife and spectacular scenery, our trips are great for couples whether or not they both participate in all the itinerary activities. Tanya doesn’t always photograph and will help to arrange side outings/activities to make the trip special for a non-photographing spouse.

What types of accommodations do you provide on the tours?

It depends on the tour location. In general, we strive to offer mid-to-high end accommodations when they’re available. This is your vacation, and we like to have a “wow” factor with some of the hotels, usually in the beginning and end of a trip. Since our groups are small, we can often stay at boutique hotels. Some locations don’t have the quality of facilities we would prefer but make up for it with great photographic opportunities. We’re always upfront about what to expect and give details/links to accommodations. We research hotels through recommendations, trip advisories, and by scouting an area before a tour. Accommodations and expectations are important!

Are meals included in the tours?

Most meals are usually included. Included meals will be noted on the itinerary. Meals that aren’t included will give you a chance to sneak in some personal time to explore on your own. On occasion, we’ll include complimentary welcome or farewell drinks, gifts in your rooms, or “goodie bags” to help you prepare for the trip.

How quickly do your tours sell out?

Our tours often sell out over a year in advance, sometimes before we post the tour online. It all depends on the interest and location. If you are signed up for our eNEwsletter, you’ll be the first to see the posted tours.

How do I book a tour?

To book a tour, please click on the Book this trip online button located on the page of the tour you’d like to attend. After this is done, Jill or Tanya will connect with you to secure deposit and finalize your booking (as long as the space is still available). For your first tour booked, we’ll have you fill out a photo tour booking form which will allow us to provide details to tour operators if needed and also help us to make your trip as enjoyable as possible.

Deposits can be paid via Visa, MasterCard, Discover, American Express, Paypal, wire transfer (if outside U.S.), or a U.S. funds check. Additional installments must be paid by wire transfer (if outside U.S.) or U.S. funds check. It is now possible to pay the full amount with credit card if you prefer; however, a 3.75% processing charge will be added to cover processing fees.